SHARPEVILLE – Starting as a humble pizza delivery driver at one of Vanderbijlpark’s popular franchises, Mlungisi Ndweni has risen through the ranks to become Vaal’s own Pizza-prenuer.
In an attempt to escape unemployment, the 34-year-old started his operation from his home kitchen, but his pizzas quickly gained a reputation for being some of the best in town.
Since 2019, Ndweni left his full-time job after saving a couple of thousand, to use the well-learned skills from his employer to start his business.
As the years passed, Ndweni’s passion for pizza grew stronger, and he began experimenting with unique toppings and flavour combinations in his kitchen.
His friends and family were his first taste testers, and their positive feedback encouraged him to take a bold step forward.
Hailing from Sharpeville, Ndweni’s story inspires countless aspiring entrepreneurs.
“My journey into the pizza business wasn’t planned, it happened due to being in an uncomfortable position in my life. I worked for a popular pizza store because I was running away from being unemployed,” he said.
“I learned the necessary skills, including making a pizza from scratch to operating a scooter. When I left my employer, I took my savings and bought necessary ingredients and started making my owner pizza,” he added.
Ndweni said he always shared a dream of selling pizzas to a friend, who motivated him to get a head start.
“When I visited the friend, he always asked me where is the pizza as I always shared the idea with him. One day I prepared one for him and he loved it. My uncle is among the people who always commended my work, see that, made me push on,” he said.
Lungsta as many would know him, said he fought challenges any other business came across, to make sure his at the same level as other big competitors.
“I bought a bike, and deliver my pizza to anyone who order with me. In my business, we don’t know any load-shedding, we cook any day and deliver on time. My pizza is on the same standard as big names, and that’s the feedback I get from my customers,” he said.
Ndweni’s dedication to quality ingredients, impeccable customer service, and innovative recipes have garnered him a legion of pizza aficionados.
Customers raved about his unique pizza creations, from the “Vaal’s Supreme” with a blend of exotic toppings to the “Sharpeville Special” honoring his hometown with a flavorful twist.
Lerato Mokoena said “I love supporting local businesses, and food is my middle name. I bought Lungsta’s pizza once and never went back to buy from other big stores. His delivery service is a bonus for me when I don’t want to leave my home.”
Nathan Booysen said “You cannot try out by far, the easiest number 1 Pizza in Vaal, right here in Sharpeville. Pizza Boy Lungsta bafethu”
